Toyota is gearing up for an explosive 2026 with the highly anticipated return of the RAV4 SUV to the Southeast Asian market.
According to the latest data from the Philippines Department of Energy (DOE), the all-new sixth-generation RAV4 has officially been listed among recognized electrified vehicles. This isn’t just a routine upgrade—it marks a significant transformation for the model as the region embraces the green vehicle trend.
The most eagerly awaited update for the 2026 RAV4 is the reintroduction of the full-time all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, a feature absent from the Philippine lineup in recent years. Toyota plans to launch two flagship variants: the 2.5 LTD HEV AWD CVT and the 2.5 ADV HEV AWD CVT. The return of AWD positions the RAV4 to compete directly with rivals, catering to drivers seeking versatility and robust performance across diverse terrains.
While sharing the same technological foundation, the two 2026 RAV4 variants are distinctly styled. The LTD HEV AWD is likely to embody a luxurious and refined “Core” design, whereas the ADV HEV AWD adopts a sportier, more adventurous aesthetic, reminiscent of the successful “Adventure” variant in international markets. These differences are evident in their dimensions: the ADV measures 4,620 mm in length and 1,745 mm in height, surpassing the LTD’s respective 4,600 mm and 1,695 mm.
Performance-wise, both variants feature a hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5L Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine and a 100kW electric motor. Paired with a 1.09kWh lithium-ion battery, the system delivers a maximum output of 186 horsepower. Power is seamlessly distributed via a CVT transmission, ensuring a smooth drive while optimizing fuel efficiency.
Although Toyota Philippines has yet to announce an official launch date, the 2026 RAV4’s appearance in legal documents suggests its debut is imminent. The shift to a hybrid AWD configuration not only sheds the RAV4’s former “front-wheel-drive urban SUV” image but is also poised to ignite a new wave of excitement in the hybrid crossover segment across the Philippines and Southeast Asia.
TH (Tuoitrethudo)
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